Civitavecchia (Rome) to Nice

Civitavecchia is a major port located in Rome, primarily utilized for maritime transportation of goods, as well as a fishing port. The commune’s name means “ancient town” and is one of the “Motorways of the Sea” in the Mediterranean, functioning as one of the main links between the mainland of Italy and Sardinia. The ancient name of the port was “Centumcellae,” first mentioned in a letter written by Pliny the Younger in 107 A.D., although scholars debate on whether the name was about the number of rooms of the Trajan Villa, or the number of natural creeks on the coast. Civitavecchia is a part of the Lazio Territory, an area which was confirmed to have social groups since pre-historic times, and the modern town was built over a pre-existing settlement of the Etruscan people in 107-108 B.C.E. (who debated to have founded Rome). In the beginning of the 2nd century, the harbor and town of Centumcellae were simultaneously developed by Emperor Trajan in the territory of Aquae Tauri. As the town became more popular for ships traveling westbound, the Thermal Baths were constructed on the hill of Ficoncella. Centumcellae flourished in the Imperial Age, and by 538 A.D., it had become a Byzantine stronghold. In 728 A.D., it became a member of the Papal States. The Saracens raided Centumcellae many times in the 9th century, prompting Pope Leo VII to have a newer and more secure settlement built by 854. The town, then known as Civita Vetula, was under the rule of several lords, and the Popes temporarily lost control during the French Rule in 1798-1815. In 1870 it entered the Kingdom of Italy. Civitavecchia was severely damaged during WWII, destroying many of the ancient monuments including Forte Michelangelo, which would be rebuilt in the 1950’s. Popular points of interest include the Forte Michelangelo, Terme Taurine, and Cattedrale di San Francesco. There is a wealth of Roman and Vatican architecture and tourists are encouraged to visit many of the museums and take the cultural tours available in this important sea port.

Bonifacio is one of our favorite arrivals! As we approach, the Captain navigates along the limestone cliffs giving guests a sea view of incredible Bonifacio as well as the great Aragon steps leading to the water’s edge. Shortly after the pilot will embark and the Captain will turn the yacht around and back into this very impressive fjord-like marina. This could be one of our highest rated arrivals as the guests always find it both impressive and awe inspiring.

Calvi located on the northwest coast of Corsica in the Haute-Corse department of France. Some have speculated that Christopher Columbus came from Calvi, which at the time was part of the Genoese Empire. SeaDream has an option to dock in the heart of town or anchor off the marina to offer marina possibilities. As most of the main sites are just a stone throw away, we have arranged a guided walking land adventure. Other options include the popular Villages of Corsica adventure, Golf, mountain biking or relaxing on the beach.

St. Tropez located on the French Riviera quite simply may be the most famous resort town in Europe. It is a playground for the fashion models, athletes, movie stars, entertainers and other extremely wealthy summertime guests. There’s much to offer in this resort town, shopping, nightlife (Byblos hotel’s Les Caves du Roy nightclub) exceptional beach clubs such as Le Club 55 and Nikki Beach at Pampelonne. Nearby you can explore some of the hill towns and visit the award winning rose wineries. You can also visit neighboring Grimaud and Port Grimaud or just a little further out golf at a few highly rated courses. SeaDream anchors just off the break wall and tenders directly to the pier downtown.

Cannes is a well-known destination in the French Riviera that is home to many international festivals celebrating the arts, including Midem, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, and the global film festival founded in 1946, the Cannes Film Festival. It’s the first European satellite manufacturer, home to the Cannes Mandelieu Space Center, as well as the headquarters for Thales Alenia Space. Originally a small fishing port heavily tied to the Lerins Islands, Cannes is most characterized by luxury, fame, and hosting conferences. Despite becoming a glamorous destination in the Côte d'Azur, the history of Cannes and the Lerins Islands was quite rocky. Cannes was initially named Aegitna, and established by the Ligurian tribe of Oxybii in the 2nd Century B.C. In 410 A.D. two monks settled on Lerina and established a monastery, housing several hundred monks by the 6th century. Out of fear of a Saracen invasion, Le Suquet was procured by the monks in the 11th century, which led to the birth and expansion on what became known as Cannes. Piracy remained a general problem and by the 12th century, the monastery was finally attacked by Saracen pirates, which further fueled insecurity. In 1520, when French King Francis I and Holy Roman Emperor Charles V declared war, Cannes became a passageway for their armies. The situation in Cannes would worsen when the great plague of 1579 annihilated much of the population. In 1635, the Spanish occupied the town for a couple of years before returning to Spain in 1707 for the War of Spanish Succession. It wasn’t until the 18th century where Cannes finally became tranquil and began flourishing in the 19th century. The economy for Cannes is sustained by business fairs, trade, tourism, and aviation. Points of interest include the Iles de Lerins, Marches Forville, Casino Croisette and Rue Meynadier. During the summer, from May to September, Cannes remains sunny for 12 hours a day. Its warm climate allows lemon, orange and olive trees to thrive, as well as fig, almond, oak, lotus and cypress trees. When sailing to Cannes, be sure to visit La Croisette and stroll along the white sandy beaches on this mile-long promenade where the very essence of this town thrives. SeaDream typically anchors so we can offer water sports to our valued guests. You may occasionally see the yacht docked alongside when we are chartered from the festival.

The stunning seaside town of Sanremo, eloquently named the Riviera dei Fiori or “Coast of Flowers,” is a little-known gem of the Italian Riviera. Often described as Italy’s mirror image of nearby Monte Carlo, Sanremo is made up of the same glamorous lifestyle as her neighbor. Admire views out to sea and over the harbor, filled with gleaming yachts. Discover the Old Quarter of La Pigna, set on a hill and host to a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets and alleyways, perfect for strolling and sampling focaccia and a glass of local wine. Lounge on sunny, secluded beaches. Marvel at the elegant Art Nouveau design of the the Casino Municipale, the oldest in Italy.

The Principality of Monaco is an independent sovereign state composed of four quarters Fontvieille (the newest), Monaco-Ville (the oldest), La Condamine, and Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo is widely known for its casino as well as the Monaco Grand Prix. Monte Carlo is one of Europe's leading tourist destinations as it simply has so much to offer. Some of the sights include the Cathédrale Paroisse, Eglise Sainte Dévôte, Jardin Exotique et Grottes de l'Observatoire, Monaco Top Cars Collection, Musée Océanographique and of course the Palace. SeaDream calls to Monte Carlo for embarkation and on certain voyages as a port of call typically docking along the new pier. There are a few occasions where the yacht may anchor offering tender service to the pier downtown or at Fontvieille. Kindly check the Land Adventures tab to see all of the options including transfers and private arrangements.

Nice is the fifth most populous city in France and the second largest on the Mediterranean coast. The city's famous seaside promenade, the Promenade des Anglais ('the Walkway of the English') owes its name to the earliest settlers to this seaside resort. For over a quarter century, the picturesque Nicean surroundings have attracted not only those in search of relaxation but also those seeking inspiration. SeaDream docks in the small port and offers several land adventure options as well as private arrangements and transfers.